Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: A day after the immersion rituals of Ganesh Chaturthi, several plaster of Paris (POP) Ganesh idols were found washed ashore at Miramar and Caranzalem beaches, raising concerns over pollution and lapses in immersion management.
Highlighting the issue, a large number of idols were seen lying along the shore. Members of Goa Hindu Yuva Shakti took the initiative to collect the idols at Miramar and carried out proper re-immersion at Caranzalem beach, ensuring dignity to the festival traditions.
Locals and morning walkers had earlier spotted broken pieces of idols and decorative material strewn along the shoreline, a recurring problem after visarjan ceremonies. While eco-friendly clay idols dissolve naturally, POP idols are non-biodegradable and release harmful chemicals, affecting marine life and coastal ecosystems.
Environmentalists, however, stressed the need for stricter enforcement of the ban on POP idols and greater awareness among devotees to adopt eco-friendly alternatives.
“The impact is evident every year. Despite awareness drives, POP idols continue to be used and eventually end up polluting our beaches and water bodies,” said a local
Goa has been promoting eco-friendly celebrations, including clay idols, natural decorations, and designated immersion tanks, but improper disposal of POP idols continues to remain a challenge.
